According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) there are over 4.5 million dog bites each year in the U.S, making them one of the most common injuries. Most dog bite injuries are minor and go unreported. Dog bite injuries can actually be dangerous because the bacteria in the dog’s mouth can easily become infected if not properly treated. If the dog is not vaccinated then they have a high risk of carrying the rabies virus, which could be deadly.
- If you know the owners, and they are cooperative, ask them if the dog is up to date on vaccinations, this is important information to pass along to your treating physician.
- If the injury is severe, call the police and file a report.
- Seek medical treatment. When seeking medical treatment you will be asked to report the bite to the Department of Public Health and Wellness, in Louisville that number is 502-574-6650. In most cases, the doctor treating you will report it. If the injury is minor and you are considering self-treating at home it is to find out if the dog is up to date on vaccines, because if the dog is not up to date on vaccinations then you absolutely need to undergo rabies preventive treatments.
- If the injury causes medical expenses, pain & suffering, or lost wages you may need to consider legal action. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney soon to assist in getting compensation for your damages including medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.
